The Newmarket Folk Society is kicking off its 2024 season with the Fitzgeralds on Saturday, Jan. 27.
The Fitzgeralds are a family group consisting of fiddling and step-dancing siblings — Tom, Kerry and Julie Fitzgerald. These siblings, who hail from just outside of Canada’s renowned Ottawa Valley, have come a long way from their small-town roots, according to the society's news release.
Raised in a musical household, they toured internationally with their family band, Everything Fitz, and were immersed in the rich tradition of Canadian old-time fiddling and step dancing that evolved with the arrival of Irish, Scottish and French immigrants. Over time, they have developed their art form to include various styles of fiddle music including Celtic, jazz, bluegrass, French-Canadian, and pop.
Their creativity and passion for experimentation has led them to compose original tunes and arrangements, some which were released on their latest album. The result is "a groovy and catchy new sound and look that appeals to all ages," the society said.
Featuring three-time Canadian Grand Masters Fiddling champions and Ontario Open Step Dance champions, this unique act incorporates high-energy fiddling and mind-blowing step dancing. It’s the rare combination of exceptional musicianship, incomparable step dancing, audience interaction, evident love of performing, and genuine sibling connection that resonates with audiences of all ages and sets this group apart.
Despite their young age, these musicians have some notable musical experiences under their belts including performing with Leahy, Natalie MacMaster, Cherish the Ladies, Tommy Hunter, e, and Sharon Shannon. Their show is a hit at many Canadian and international festivals including Cleveland Irish Festival, Shrewsbury Folk Festival, Mariposa Folk Festival, Stan Rogers Folk Festival and others.
The Fitzgeralds — who were nominated for the Canadian Folk Music Awards 2023 Instrumental Group of the Year — truly love what they’re doing and thrive on interaction with their audiences.
The concert starts at 8 p.m. and takes place at the Newmarket Legion, 707 Srigley St. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased online (newmarketfolk.com) or by calling 705-431-7182 (leave a message.)
